Why More People Are Choosing Senior Living Facilities

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For many older adults, the prospect of moving to a senior living facility can be overwhelming and stressful. But the truth is that making the change to assisted living can help people make the most of their golden years.

Today’s senior living facilities are designed to remove stress, improve health and enhance quality of life. Here are the top reasons why more and more people are choosing to make the change to assisted living in the United States.

It’s Safe and Healthy

Few places have such sophisticated security systems as senior living facilities. Residents generally do not have to worry about locking outside doors or checking the credentials of people who visit, as this is taken care of by staff.

Senior living facilities are also well-equipped with safety features that make day-to-day activities less risky. People who cannot move around as easily as they once could can benefit from hallway rails, wheelchair access and disabled bathing facilities. Plus, there will always be someone around to help if the worst should happen.

In an assisted living facility where meals are prepared by staff, residents can enjoy balanced, healthy and delicious meals without having to lift a finger themselves. You will also have easy access to medical staff, should you fall ill or require medical attention. In fact, many facilities have an off-staff doctor and on-property pharmacy.

It’s Social

Senior citizens who live in community facilities tend to have more active social lives due to easy access to companionship from other residents. Maintaining meaningful connections with other people contributes to healthy aging and can slow down cognitive decline. Living amongst their peers also combats loneliness, especially if family lives far away or can’t visit frequently.

The range of recreational activities available in most senior living facilities is impressive. Residents often have access to:

It’s Less Stressful

Speak to any resident of a senior living facility about the benefits they enjoy most and “lack of stress” is likely to top the list. Most facilities offer help with tasks like housekeeping, shopping and running errands. You may even benefit from assistance managing bills, appointments and other life-admin tasks.

Of course, many older adults prefer to maintain full control over these aspects of their lives and do not require assistance. The help you receive depends on what you personally need and want. Most facilities allow you to scale up and down the assistance you receive depending on your needs at a given time.

It Protects Relationships With Loved Ones

If you’re an older adult who finds themselves increasingly irritated by well-meaning relatives’ attempts to help, moving to a senior living facility could be a good solution. You will be able to maintain a sense of independence, while giving your loved ones much-needed peace of mind.

It Can Be Affordable

Many people rule out the idea of moving to a senior living facility over concerns it will be too expensive. The cost of assisted living varies considerable state-by-state and from one facility to the next, so it’s worth shopping around.

The total cost of living in a senior home depends on which services you choose. Some facilities offer meals, medication, rent and utilities, while others may only charge rent and leave everything else to the resident. It’s relatively easy to find a suitable community within budget, with some facilities charging a little a $1,500 a month.

It is worth checking out what financial support is available in your area too. Many state authorities offer grants and subsidies to older adults who would benefit from assisted living, but have insufficient financial means.